North American International Auto Show visitors can learn more about convenient new Department of State services, as well as experience voting equipment that is the wave of the future for Michigan elections by casting ballots for their favorite universities, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land announced today.

Land will tour the auto show throughout its two-week public and private run. A department booth in the Cobo Hall concourse will highlight the enhanced services provided at Michigan’s new SUPER!Centers and PLUS offices. Guests also may join in the spirited college rivalries by voting for their favorite university license plate.

"The auto show is an opportunity for the city of Detroit and America’s carmakers to shine on a global stage," Land said. "We’re excited to demonstrate our support by sponsoring a booth that’s informative and interactive. Visitors will discover ways to save time when doing business with our department. They also can become familiar with the optical-scan voting equipment that will soon be used across Michigan while showing their school pride at the same time.

"There’s something for everyone and we look forward to sharing information with our guests. Of course, the display would not be possible without the commitment and enthusiasm of our department volunteers. They are outstanding representatives of the state of Michigan, and we’re proud that they’re part of the Department of State team."

Highlights of the department booth include:

• Showcasing new features: The booth will have the appearance of the new Secretary of State SUPER!Centers and PLUS offices. These are a new breed of office created by Land to offer enhanced services such as Saturday hours, extended Wednesday hours and a variety of on-site services all geared toward providing greater customer convenience.
• Individual driving records: Guests may buy a copy of their own driving records for $8. This is a new service offered in SUPER!Centers and PLUS offices. It is an especially handy option for customers who need to furnish a copy of their driving records to prospective employers.
• Experience new voting equipment while showing your school pride: Visitors may practice on an optical-scan voting machine, which will be used in elections statewide by 2006, by casting ballots for their favorite university license plate. Actual optical-scan ballots featuring graphics of Michigan’s 15 university plates will be available. Voters can mark their selection and feed the ballot through the tabulator. Updated tallies will be provided daily. It’s a helpful exercise in using the new optical-scan equipment and a fun way to show your school spirit.
• Informational presentation: A presentation featuring interesting historical facts regarding driving, vehicles, license plates and other Department of State information will be displayed at the booth. A second presentation will highlight the department’s online services. The department Web site is www.Michigan.gov/sos.
• Vince and Larry: Vince and Larry, America’s favorite Crash Test Dummies, are back by popular demand. The dummies are available to pose for photos with visitors and will hand out pencils and state maps.

The auto show is open to the public Jan. 15 – 23.